“I enjoy and appreciate the beauty of our natural world and understand the importance of conservation and the need to protect the diversity of all life that dwells here on our beautiful planet wih us. We must not become complacent or undervalue the unique gems of natural habitat dotted around the UK. Our well-being depends on their survival. And survive they must. Otherwise, the simple pleasures of a springtime walk through a meadow, or a woodland carpeted with bluebells – that liberating sensory rush, will become a thing of the past if we were to allow our green spaces to fade and vanish: surrendering to tarmac and concrete.”

“Every animal has the right to live a life free from fear, suffering, exploitation, and persecution – they all deserve our concern and our protection, including farmed animals.”

“Back to my Stikki the Squirrel book.”

“Grey squirrels are looked upon as pests by many people, insisting that their presence threatens the red squirrel population. The success of grey squirrels is largely due to their intelligence and adaptability in a changing world where woodland habitat is shrinking at a faster rate than ever before. With careful management, harmony can be established, enabling all species to co-exist in a world in balance with nature.

I wanted to highlight the grey squirrel and share their fun, happy-go-lucky side with you. They are beautiful, delightful little creatures and should not be maligned for our misguided beliefs but be regarded as a valid asset to our British countryside.

For many years we have encouraged squirrels into our garden, keeping our squirrel feeder topped-up with seeds and nuts for them to eat. It is always a delight to watch the squirrels come into our garden, and their humorous activities inspired me to write this light-hearted tale about a family of cheeky grey squirrels.”

“I am a committed animal rights advocate and a keen environmentalist.”